Forensic Nurse Examiner (RN) - Emergency Department

University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 57,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Savings

Disability Insurance

Health Savings Plans

Certification and Education Support

Job summary

University of Virginia is seeking a Forensic Nurse Examiner in the Emergency Department at UVA Health. This role blends clinical expertise with advocacy and justice, supporting victims of violence and contributing to the legal process.

You'll deliver expert forensic nursing care in a fast-paced, trauma-informed environment, conducting examinations, documenting findings, and collaborating with physicians, law enforcement, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure compassionate care and thorough

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited nursing program.
• BSN required within 5 years of hire.
• Licensed to practice as RN in Virginia; AHA BLS required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive forensic medical examinations for victims of crime and document findings.
• Perform forensic photography and evidence collection per standards.
• Provide compassionate, trauma-informed care ensuring patients feel supported, safe, and respected.
• Collaborate with emergency physicians, law enforcement, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Coordinate follow-up care and community resources for patient recovery beyond the ED.
• Prepare clear, thorough forensic reports for potential legal proceedings.
• Participate in court testimony as an expert in forensic nursing.

Skills

Forensic nursing

Trauma-informed care

Patient advocacy

Clinical documentation

Education

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) within 5 years

Job description

Step into a role where every shift carries purpose. As a Forensic Nurse Examiner in the Emergency Department at UVA Health, you are at the intersection of clinical excellence, advocacy, and justice-providing critical care to individuals during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.

This is more than emergency nursing. It is a highly specialized, mission-driven practice where your clinical expertise directly supports victims of violence while contributing to the legal process. At UVA Health, you will be part of a collaborative, trauma-informed environment where your work has a lasting impact on patient outcomes and community safety.

The Role:

In this unique and impactful position, you will deliver expert forensic nursing care within a dynamic Emergency Department setting-blending clinical skills with investigative precision and compassionate advocacy.

On any given shift, you will navigate a fast-paced, emotionally complex environment while maintaining a patient-centered, trauma-informed approach.

What does an average day look like?

• Conduct comprehensive forensic medical examinations for victims of crime, including detailed injury assessment and documentation

• Perform forensic photography and evidence collection in accordance with legal and clinical standards

• Provide compassionate, trauma-informed care, ensuring patients feel supported, safe, and respected

• Collaborate closely with emergency physicians, law enforcement, and multidisciplinary teams

• Coordinate follow-up care and community resources to support patient recovery beyond the ED

• Prepare clear, thorough forensic reports that may be utilized in legal proceedings

• Participate in court testimony, offering expert insight to support judicial processes on behalf of patients

• Manage the balance of clinical urgency and meticulous documentation, ensuring both immediate care and long-term impact

This role demands a nurse who is clinically sharp, emotionally intelligent, and deeply committed to advocacy. This is a role where your expertise is not only valued-it is essential.

Why UVA Health:

UVA Health is a nationally recognized academic medical center where innovation, clinical excellence, and compassionate care converge. As a Forensic Nurse Examiner here, you are supported by a system that values both advanced practice and meaningful impact.

You will benefit from an environment that prioritizes both professional growth and purposeful work:

• Be part of an academic health system known for advancing care, research, and education

• Work within a culture that emphasizes team collaboration, respect, and clinical excellence

• Practice in a setting where forensic nursing is recognized as vital to patient care and public safety

• Access to ongoing training and professional development in forensic and emergency nursing

• Engage in work that directly contributes to community health, patient advocacy, and the justice system

• Collaborate with experienced multidisciplinary teams, including law enforcement and legal professionals

Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates

Why People Love Living in Charlottesville:

Charlottesville offers an exceptional quality of life that complements the intensity and purpose of healthcare work. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the area provides easy access to hiking, outdoor recreation, and scenic beauty. The city is known for its vibrant food scene, local wineries, arts culture, and strong sense of community. With a balance of small-city charm and intellectual energy from the University of Virginia, Charlottesville creates an ideal environment for healthcare professionals seeking both career fulfillment and personal well-being.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Graduate of an accredited nursing program required. Bachelor of Science in Nursing required within 5 years of hire.

Experience: 1 year of relevant experience.

Licensure: Licensed to Practice as a Registered Nurse in the Commonwealth of Virginia. American Heart Association (AHA) Health Care Provider BLS certification required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Job requires standing for prolonged periods, frequently traveling, bending/stooping. Proficient communicative, auditory and visual skills; Attention to detail and ability to write legibly; Ability to lift/push/pull 20 - 50lbs. May be exposed to chemicals, blood/body fluids and infectious disease.

The pay range for this role is $41.05 - $54.15 hourly. Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Retirement Savings
• Long-term and Short-term Disability
• Health Saving Plans, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Certification and Education Support

UVA Health is a world-class Magnet Recognized academic medical center and health system with a level 1 trauma center. 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report "Best Hospitals" guide rates UVA Health University Medical Center as "High Performing" in 5 adult specialties and 14 conditions/procedures. We are one of 70 National Cancer Institute designated cancer centers. UVA Health Children's is named by 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report as the best children's hospital in Virginia with 9 specialties ranked among the best in the nation. Our footprint also encompasses 3 community hospitals and an integrated network of primary and specialty care clinics throughout Charlottesville, Culpeper, Northern Virginia, and beyond.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.